Ashlee Steele has been described as the love of her husband’s life, helping him raise nearly $US75,000 ($80,000) to cover his ALS medical expenses. He had recently been diagnosed with the disease.

The couple had two children.

Police are working to establish a motive in the double homicide.

The fundraiser for Andrew Steele described his journey since his diagnosis.

“Earlier this year, Andy noticed a twitching in his arm muscles that wouldn’t stop. Eventually his speech became impaired with slurring and difficulty articulating his words,” the fundraising website said.

According to the website, Andrew Steel was unable to work and the loss of income crushed his family.

The alleged double murder came just days after the victims and friends of the suspect participated in the ice bucket challenge and raised about $US23,000.